Nevada Joins Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee And More In Spearheading A Record-Breaking Tourism Surge Across US This Holiday Season: New Updates You Need To Know

Published on November 3, 2025

Nevada joins Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee, and more in creating an extraordinary US holiday tourism surge set to shatter records in 2025, as rising demand and a growing desire for both domestic and international travel converge. These states, with their unique blend of attractions, affordability, and holiday appeal, are primed to lead the charge in tourism growth during the upcoming holiday season. From iconic cities like Las Vegas and Orlando to scenic gems like the Grand Canyon and Myrtle Beach, travelers are flocking to these destinations in record numbers, fueled by lower gas prices, increased travel budgets, and an insatiable appetite for new experiences. As airlines add extra seats, and attractions ramp up their offerings, these states are gearing up for the busiest and most profitable holiday season in years.

The 2025 holiday season in the United States is set to be one for the history books, with travel experts predicting a record-breaking surge in tourism. With rising demand, travelers are expected to flock to airports and hit the roads, making this year’s holiday season one of the busiest in US history. As Americans prepare for their seasonal getaways, several states are poised to benefit the most from this influx of travelers, including Nevada, Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Arizona, and Tennessee. Each state is contributing to the overall tourism boom, with their unique attractions, affordability, and prime holiday appeal. According to a new report, these states are not only set to attract millions of visitors but are also on track to break previous tourism records.

A Nationwide Surge in Holiday Travel: Record Spending and Rising Demand

The holiday season in the US is already shaping up to be a massive event for the travel industry. As travel demand surges, so does the amount Americans are willing to spend. A recent report by NerdWallet projected that Americans will collectively spend $311 billion on flights and hotels in 2025, a significant increase from last year. This translates to an average of $2,586 per person, marking a nearly $260 increase from the previous year.

Travel experts recommend booking early, with a suggested timeframe of six to eight weeks in advance, to secure affordable flights and accommodations. For those seeking the best value, traveling midweek, flying into alternative airports, and monitoring fare alerts are all crucial strategies. As prices rise and demand spikes, early planning becomes essential for a smoother, stress-free holiday trip.

Despite economic uncertainties, nearly 48% of travelers are determined to go ahead with their holiday plans, regardless of the cost. The holiday season in the US holds immense cultural significance, with many travelers prioritizing family reunions, vacations, and much-needed breaks. These factors are driving the holiday travel boom, further fueling tourism growth across the country.

Nevada: A Record-Breaking Holiday Surge on the Horizon

Nevada is set to experience an extraordinary surge in tourism during the 2025 holiday period. Known for its iconic tourism hubs like Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe, Nevada is a magnet for holiday travelers. The state has already seen impressive growth, with a nearly 23% increase in overseas visitors, highlighting its appeal to both domestic and international tourists. This year, Nevada is poised to break records, drawing millions of visitors looking for world-class entertainment, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.

In addition to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, Nevada offers a variety of winter attractions, from ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area to snowmobiling and outdoor adventures in the northern regions. With the booming demand for leisure travel, Nevada’s hospitality sector is gearing up to accommodate a significant increase in visitors.

As the holiday season approaches, expect to see a rise in the number of events, festivals, and special promotions that Nevada will offer to attract tourists. The state’s well-established reputation as a premier entertainment and vacation destination, coupled with its growing appeal for winter sports, places Nevada in a prime position to lead the 2025 tourism surge.

Texas: A Statewide Tourism Boom Led by Major Cities and Hidden Gems

Texas is another state poised for significant tourism growth during the 2025 holiday season. In 2024, Texas achieved a remarkable $36.7 billion in tourism spending, marking a 3.1% increase year-on-year. This impressive growth places Texas ahead of tourism giants like California and New York, positioning it as a key player in the US holiday tourism surge. Texas offers a broad mix of attractions, from bustling urban centers like Austin, Houston, and Dallas to the state’s natural wonders and smaller towns that provide a more relaxed holiday experience.

The Lone Star State’s mix of major cities and scenic landscapes makes it a versatile destination for all types of travelers. Whether tourists are seeking urban excitement, cultural festivals, or outdoor adventures, Texas provides a rich variety of experiences. With fuel prices falling, road trips to destinations like the Texas Hill Country, Big Bend National Park, and the Gulf Coast will become more affordable, attracting more visitors to these picturesque locations.

While the major cities will undoubtedly see a rise in visitors, Texas’ lesser-known spots, such as the charming towns of Fredericksburg and Marfa, may also experience an influx of travelers looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path holiday experience.

Florida: Sunshine and Theme Parks Drive Domestic Travel Growth

Florida is a perennial holiday tourism favorite, and 2025 will be no exception. While international tourism to Florida has seen some decline, domestic interest remains as strong as ever, especially for those seeking a winter escape. The state’s warmth and sunshine make it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to avoid colder climates during the holidays.

Florida’s famous theme parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, will likely see record numbers of visitors. The state’s tourism industry is well-primed for a busy holiday season, with resorts and hotels bracing for high occupancy rates. To accommodate the surge in visitors, airlines are adding more than 250,000 extra seats for Thanksgiving travel alone.

In addition to the theme parks, Florida’s beaches, outdoor attractions, and vibrant cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando continue to draw holiday tourists. The state’s broad appeal, from its family-friendly resorts to its luxurious beachfront destinations, ensures that Florida will remain one of the most sought-after travel locations for the holiday season.

South Carolina: Coastal Charm and Affordability for Holiday Travelers

South Carolina is emerging as a strong contender for a tourism boom in 2025, with Myrtle Beach leading the charge. This popular coastal destination consistently attracts over 20 million visitors annually and is expected to see even more foot traffic during the holiday period. South Carolina offers a perfect balance of affordability, charm, and accessibility, making it an attractive alternative to more crowded destinations.

The state’s picturesque coastline, historic sites, and warm southern hospitality will lure many travelers looking for a more relaxed and budget-friendly holiday experience. Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island will be top destinations, offering everything from beach vacations to cultural exploration.

South Carolina’s tourism growth also aligns with a broader trend of travelers seeking out lesser-known destinations. With its abundant outdoor activities, from golfing to boating, South Carolina offers diverse options for holiday travelers looking for something outside the usual tourist crowds.

Arizona: Sun, Sedona, and Scottsdale for a Warm Holiday Getaway

Arizona’s holiday tourism is set to surge in 2025, thanks in large part to its sunny weather and natural beauty. As a warm-weather destination, Arizona attracts many visitors who prefer to escape the winter chill. Sedona, Scottsdale, and the Grand Canyon are just a few of the state’s iconic attractions that will draw travelers during the holiday season.

Arizona’s reputation for outdoor activities, including hiking, golfing, and visiting the breathtaking landscapes of the Grand Canyon, makes it a top destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The state also offers a wide range of luxurious resorts and spas, perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy a peaceful holiday retreat.

As Arizona continues to experience significant growth in international visitors, its appeal to domestic tourists is also on the rise, making it a key player in the 2025 holiday tourism boom.

Tennessee: Music, Culture, and Southern Hospitality in the Holiday Season

Tennessee’s tourism industry is expected to experience strong growth in 2025, driven by its vibrant cultural scene and world-renowned music destinations. Cities like Nashville and Memphis will see a surge in visitors, particularly during the holiday season when music festivals and events draw large crowds. Known for its rich musical heritage, Tennessee offers an exciting and culturally immersive experience for travelers looking for something unique during the holidays.

In addition to its music scene, Tennessee is home to numerous historical landmarks, scenic byways, and outdoor destinations, which will appeal to visitors seeking variety in their holiday plans. The state’s reputation for southern hospitality and affordability makes it an attractive option for both domestic and international travelers.

Tennessee’s combination of culture, entertainment, and charm ensures that it will be a major player in the US tourism boom of 2025.

As we look ahead to the 2025 holiday season, it’s clear that tourism in the US is on track to reach unprecedented heights. Nevada, Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Arizona, and Tennessee are among the states leading the charge, each offering unique attractions, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences for travelers. Whether seeking urban excitement, outdoor adventures, or cultural exploration, these states are ready to welcome millions of visitors and contribute to a record-breaking tourism surge.

With rising demand, travelers should plan ahead to secure the best deals and ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday experience. From booking flights early to taking advantage of flexible travel dates, planning is key to maximizing value during this busy travel period.

Nevada joins Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee, and more in creating an extraordinary US holiday tourism surge set to shatter records in 2025, driven by rising demand, affordable travel options, and unique attractions across these states. With millions of travelers expected to flock to these destinations, the holiday season is poised to be the busiest in US history.

The 2025 holiday season promises to be a time of extraordinary growth for the US tourism industry, as states across the country prepare for a surge in travelers eager to celebrate the season and explore new destinations. The states highlighted in this report are set to play a pivotal role in this tourism boom, making them the top destinations to watch as the year unfolds.